​Snakes around Las Vegas

Nearly all information on this page pertains to snakes found at Red Rock Canyon, Lake Mead, and Mt. Charleston.​Very few fatalities due to snake bites have occurred in Clark County (Las Vegas areas).

The 52 Peak Club has done almost 4,000 hikes. No one has ever been bitten by a snake.You should join us. We are the safest hiking club in Las Vegas. ​The 52 Peak Club was created and run by Branch Whitney

﻿Out of 18 snakes around Las Vegas only three are venomous There are no venomous snakes in Mt. Charleston

Most active months for snakes are April and October Snakes are most active in early morning and at dusk

20 to 40% of bites from venomous snakes are dry bites (no venom)

Snakes are most active between temperatures of 70 and 90 degrees

Some rattlesnakes don't rattle

The Red Racer (non-venomous) is the most common snake seen around Las Vegas

Other Snakes

Western Diamondback:Color: Generally light tan to brown with faded "dusty" diamond pattern. Terrain: Brushy desert, rocky canyonsElevation Range: Up to 5,000 feetPrime Location: South of Searchlight, NV - normally not found around Las Vegas, NVBite: Highest fatality rate of any snake in North America!Best Identifier: Size. This is a big snake compared to other rattlesnakes. White and black bands on tail.

Gopher Snake - Not Poisonous:Color: Cream colored to yellow brownTerrain: VariousElevation Range: Up to 8,000 feetPrime Location: All areasBite: Not venomous, but will biteBest Identifier: Lack of triangular head. No ring/rattler on tail.